FLORIDA GOV. DUHSANTIS ANNOUNCED THAT HIS DEPARTMENT OF MISEDUCATION HAS ADOPTED NEW BLACK PEOPLE STANDARDS

 

FLORIDA GOV. DUHSANTIS ANNOUNCED THAT HIS DEPARTMENT OF MISEDUCATION ADOPTED NEW BLACK PEOPLE STANDARDS

Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your seats because we have some breaking news! Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, has just announced that his Department of Miseducation has adopted new standards for teaching history. And what do these standards say, you ask? Brace yourselves, folks, because this is going to be a doozy.

According to the new standards, slavery was actually good for black people! Yes, you read that right. Apparently, being stripped of your freedom, forced to work for no pay, and treated like property was actually beneficial for enslaved people. Who knew?

The standards go on to claim that enslaved people learned valuable skills while in captivity. Skills like how to pick cotton, how to survive brutal beatings, and how to live in constant fear for their lives. Oh, and let's not forget about the free room and board they received! Who wouldn't want to be locked up and fed scraps by their oppressors?

But wait, it gets even better. The standards suggest that being enslaved was actually a "personal benefit" for black people. Because apparently, being treated like subhuman garbage is just what every person dreams of. Forget about freedom, autonomy, and basic human rights – those things are overrated anyway.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "This has to be a joke, right?" Sadly, no. This is the actual stance that the Florida Department of Miseducation is taking on the history of slavery. And it's not just a minor footnote in the curriculum – it's a major part of what students will be taught.

So, what can we expect from this new curriculum? Well, for starters, we can expect a lot of confused and angry students. We can expect parents to be outraged that their children are being taught such blatant lies. And we can expect a lot of eye-rolling from anyone with even a basic understanding of history.

But hey, at least we can all take comfort in the fact that Ron DeSantis and his team of educators are doing their best to make sure that future generations are completely misinformed about one of the darkest periods in our nation's history. Because why learn from our mistakes when we can just pretend they never happened?

In all seriousness though, this is a truly disturbing development. It's one thing to have differing opinions on how history should be taught – it's quite another to actively promote falsehoods and propaganda. We can only hope that this decision is met with enough backlash that it's quickly reversed.

In the meantime, if you're a student in Florida, I suggest you do your own research on the topic of slavery. Don't rely solely on what your textbooks tell you – seek out other sources and form your own opinions. And if you're a parent in Florida, I suggest you speak up and let your voice be heard. Because if we don't push back against this kind of nonsense, we're all in trouble.

Florida Schools Will Teach How Slavery Brought ‘Personal Benefit’ to Black People https://news.yahoo.com/florida-schools-teach-slavery-brought-123130834.html

 Florida Board of Education approves controversial Black history standards https://www.axios.com/2023/07/19/florida-education-controversial-black-history-standards

Florida Board of Education approves new Black history standards that critics call 'a big step backward' | CNN https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/20/us/florida-black-history-education-standards-reaj/index.html 

Florida Schools now teaching students that slavery brought "personal benefit" to Black people | Salon.com https://www.salon.com/2023/07/20/florida-schools-now-teaching-students-that-slavery-brought-personal-benefit-to-black-people/ 

MEATAXE MIKE MILES STRIKES AGAIN WITH ANOTHER PLAY OUT OF THE OLD BILLIONAIRES PRIVATIZATION HANDBOOK

 

MEATAXE MIKE MILES STRIKES AGAIN WITH ANOTHER PLAY OUT OF THE OLD BILLIONAIRES PRIVATIZATION HANDBOOK

Houston ISD teachers are up in arms over a new scheme cooked up by the district's notorious Superintendent, MeatAxe Mike Miles. According to reports, Miles has been promising teachers a 40% pay raise to sign a contract and move to another school in the district. However, when the offer letters arrived, they were $25,000 less than what was originally promised.

One teacher, Mario Williams, spoke out about the discrepancy, saying that nobody in the district could give him an explanation for what happened. Williams has been an elementary school special education teacher with HISD for the past four years and claims that the job is demanding but also rewarding.

"He told us that compensation is working very hard making sure that they're getting everybody's pay right," Williams said. "But when I received my offer letter in the mail, it wasn't what I was promised."

This is not the first time that MeatAxe Mike has pulled a bait-and-switch on HISD teachers. In fact, it seems to be a page out of his old billionaire's privatization handbook. Miles has been accused of using similar tactics in his previous positions as Superintendent of schools in Colorado and Dallas.

However, this time, MeatAxe Mike may have gone too far. Teachers across the district are organizing protests and demanding an explanation from the district. Some are even calling for Miles to be fired.

One teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "It's just not right. We work hard every day to educate our students, and we deserve to be treated fairly. MeatAxe Mike needs to be held accountable for his actions."

Despite the backlash, Miles seems unfazed. In a statement to the press, he defended his actions, saying, "We are committed to providing our teachers with competitive salaries and benefits. We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience caused by the offer letters."

The statement did little to quell the anger of HISD teachers, who are now planning a walkout in protest. It remains to be seen whether MeatAxe Mike will back down or face the wrath of Houston's educators.

In the meantime, teachers like Mario Williams are left wondering how they will make ends meet with a salary that falls short of what was promised.

"I love my job and I love my students," Williams said. "But I also have bills to pay and a family to support. I just hope that HISD will do the right thing and make this right."

As for MeatAxe Mike, it seems that his days as Superintendent may be numbered. If he doesn't learn his lesson soon, he may find himself out of a job and on the receiving end of a pink slip.

Houston ISD teachers say offer letters don't match compensation they were verbally promised https://www.khou.com/article/news/education/houston-isd-teacher-pay-offer-letters/285-d9f8ffc7-77b5-4893-bd26-d7dded882a01 via @KHOU

 Houston ISD teachers say offer letters don't match compensation they were verbally promised - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-H3tUSkfxBU

REAGANOMICS TRICKLE DOWN MENTAL HEALTHCARE HAS MADE US ALL CRAZY

 

REAGANOMICS TRICKLE DOWN MENTAL HEALTHCARE HAS MADE US ALL CRAZY  

Oh, Ronnie, what have you done? Your mental health policies have turned us all into a bunch of crazies. Trickle-down mental care? More like trickle-down insanity. Privatization of everything and let the market figure it out? That's just crazy talk. Your abject failure of Reaganomics privatization and trickle-down has left us all scratching our heads and wondering what the hell happened.

But fear not, my fellow nutjobs, there is hope on the horizon. We can correct these problems caused by the Reaganomics approach to health care in California and the US. How, you ask? Well, let me tell you.

First, let's talk about how current mental health policies affect homelessness, drugs, and violence. Spoiler alert: not in a good way. The lack of access to adequate community-based services has contributed to the increase of homelessness, violence, and incarceration among people with serious mental illnesses. And let's not forget the opioid and fentanyl epidemics that has ravaged our country. It's time to face the music and admit that Reagan's policies were a disaster.

But don't despair, my fellow loonies. Governor Gavin Newsom has unveiled a new proposal called the Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (or CARE) Court. This program would provide a framework for courts to compel people with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders into treatment, while also providing participants with supportive housing and wrap-around services. It's about time someone took some action to fix this mess.

Now, let's talk about the cost of mental health care. It varies by state, but one thing is for sure: it's expensive. The average spending on mental health treatment and services in the US was $225 billion in 2019. That's a lot of dough. But don't worry, some therapists offer sliding scale fees or pro bono services for low-income clients. So, if you're feeling a little crazy but don't want to break the bank, there are options out there for you.

In conclusion, Reagan's mental health policies were a disaster. But we can't just sit around and complain about it. We need to take action and demand better mental health care for ourselves and our fellow citizens. So, let's get out there and make some noise. Let's demand change. And let's do it with a smile on our faces because, hey, if we can't laugh at ourselves, who can we laugh at?

THE DEFT DIVE

 Ronald Reagan's mental health policies as governor of California and as president of the United States, and their effects on California and the country. 

• - As governor of California from 1967 to 1975, Reagan signed the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act in 1967, which aimed to end the involuntary commitment of people with mental health disorders and establish a conservatorship system for those who could not care for themselves⁵. The act also shifted the responsibility of mental health care from the state to the counties, and reduced the funding and enrollment for state mental institutions⁴. Some critics argue that this policy contributed to the increase of homelessness, violence, and incarceration among people with serious mental illnesses, as many of them could not access adequate community-based services²¹¹. Others contend that the act was a progressive reform that protected the civil rights and dignity of people with mental health disorders, and that the lack of federal support and coordination was the main cause of the problems⁵⁶.
• - As president of the United States from 1981 to 1989, Reagan repealed the Mental Health Systems Act of 1980, which was signed by President Jimmy Carter and provided grants to community mental health centers¹. The act was based on the recommendations of the President's Commission on Mental Health, which sought to improve mental health care in the country¹. Reagan replaced the act with the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, which block granted the funds to the states and reduced federal spending on mental health¹⁹. This resulted in the closure of many community mental health centers and programs, and left millions of people with mental health disorders without adequate care or support²⁷. Reagan also opposed the creation of a cabinet-level Department of Health and Human Services, and appointed officials who were hostile to mental health research and advocacy²⁷.

In conclusion, Reagan's mental health policies as governor and president were largely driven by his conservative ideology and fiscal agenda, which favored decentralization, deregulation, and privatization of mental health care. His policies had significant and lasting effects on California and the country, as they reduced the availability and quality of public mental health services, and increased the social and economic costs of untreated mental illness.

Bing, 7/20/2023

(1) MENTAL HEALTH LAWS AND PATIENTS’ RIGHTS IN CALIFORNIA - Placer County, CA. https://www.placer.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/34528/Mental-Health-Laws-and-Patients-Rights-in-California-2018-Update-PDF.

(2) Ronald Reagan Mental Health Policy In California - KPCC. https://www.kpcc.org/show/airtalk/2004-06-10/ronald-reagan-mental-health-policy-in-california.

(3) Ronald Reagan's shameful legacy: Violence, the homeless, mental illness. https://www.salon.com/2013/09/29/ronald_reagans_shameful_legacy_violence_the_homeless_mental_illness/.

(4) Reagan Didn't Close Down Mental Hospitals - The Gormogons. https://www.gormogons.com/index.php/2013/03/reagan-didnt-close-down-mental-hospitals/.

(5) How a Reagan-era law built California’s mental health system | The .... https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article259026268.html.

(6) Mental Health Systems Act of 1980 - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mental_Health_Systems_Act_of_1980.

(7) Did the Emptying of Mental Hospitals Contribute to Homelessness?. https://www.kqed.org/news/11209729/did-the-emptying-of-mental-hospitals-contribute-to-homelessness-here.

(8) How Reagan’s Mental-Health Concerns Were Handled - New York Magazine. https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2018/01/how-reagans-mental-health-concerns-were-handled.html.

(9) The Facts: President Reagan's Mental Health And Stability While In .... https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-facts-president-reagans-mental-health-and-stability-while-in-office-never-in-question-300580513.html.

(10) Mental Health Systems Act (1980 - S. 1177) - GovTrack.us. https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/96/s1177.

(11) California: Reagan and the Mental Health Controversy - JSTOR. https://www.jstor.org/stable/1725689.

The current state of mental health care in California is a complex and challenging issue that affects millions of Californians. According to the California Health Care Foundation, nearly 1 in 7 California adults experiences a mental illness, and one in 26 has a serious mental illness that makes it difficult to carry out daily activities¹. For children, one in 14 has an emotional disturbance that limits functioning in family, school, or community activities¹. However, close to two-thirds of adults with a mental illness and two-thirds of adolescents with major depressive episodes did not get treatment¹.

There are many factors that contribute to the gap between the need and the availability of mental health care in California, such as the lack of funding, workforce, and coordination among different systems and levels of government². The state has also faced legal and political challenges in implementing policies that aim to improve mental health care, such as the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA), which was passed by voters in 2004 and imposes a 1% tax on incomes above $1 million to fund mental health programs³. The MHSA has been criticized for its lack of oversight, accountability, and transparency, as well as its uneven distribution of funds across counties³.

In response to the mental health crisis, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a new proposal in March 2022 called the Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (or CARE) Court, which would provide a framework for courts to compel people with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders into treatment, while also providing participants with supportive housing and wrap-around services². The proposal would require all 58 counties to participate in the program, and would serve between 7,000 and 12,000 Californians². The proposal is still pending approval from the Legislature.

The state of mental health care in California is a dynamic and evolving issue that requires ongoing attention and collaboration from various stakeholders. I hope this summary has given you some insight into the current situation and the potential solutions. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with me. 

Bing, 7/20/2023

(1) 2022 Edition — Mental Health in California - California Health Care .... https://www.chcf.org/publication/2022-edition-mental-health-california/.

(2) California mental health crisis: Newsom unveils ‘new strategy’ - CalMatters. https://calmatters.org/health/2022/03/newsom-california-mental-illness-treatment/.

(3) Behavioral Health Care - California Department of Managed Health Care. https://www.dmhc.ca.gov/HealthCareinCalifornia/GettheBestCare/BehavioralHealthCare.aspx.

(4) Mental Health Services - DHCS. https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/individuals/Pages/MentalHealthPrograms-Ind.aspx.

The cost of mental health care varies by state, depending on factors such as the availability of providers, the insurance coverage, the quality of services, and the demand for care. According to the web search results, here are some facts and figures that might help you compare the cost of mental health care across different states:

• - The average spending on mental health treatment and services in the U.S. was $225 billion in 2019¹, which is about 6% of the total health care spending².
• - The state with the highest total amount of mental health expenditures in 2019 was California, with $6.8 billion dedicated to mental health spending³. The state with the second highest amount was New York, with $5 billion allocated to mental health spending³.
• - The state with the highest amount of per client mental health expenditures in 2019 was Hawaii, with $14,779 spent per client annually³. The state with the second highest amount was Alaska, with $13,910 spent per client annually³.
• - The state with the lowest percentage of adults with a mental illness who are uninsured in 2018 was Massachusetts, with 3.8% of adults with a mental illness lacking insurance¹. The state with the highest percentage was Texas, with 21.5% of adults with a mental illness uninsured¹.
• - The average cost of therapy in the U.S. can range from free to upward of $200 per session, depending on the location, the insurance, and the therapist⁴. Some therapists may offer sliding scale fees or pro bono services for low-income clients.

Bing, 7/20/2023

(1) Access to Care Data 2022 | Mental Health America. https://mhanational.org/issues/2022/mental-health-america-access-care-data.

(2) What you need to know about the cost and accessibility of mental health .... https://www.nami.org/Press-Media/In-The-News/2021/What-you-need-to-know-about-the-cost-and-accessibility-of-mental-health-care-in-America.

(3) Mental Health Spending By State Across the US. https://rehabs.com/explore/mental-health-spending-by-state-across-the-us/.

(4) How Much Does Therapy Cost In 2023? – Forbes Health. https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/how-much-does-therapy-cost/.

ZUCK GOTTA NEW RIDE: INTRODUCING LLAMA 2

ZUCK GOTTA NEW RIDE: INTRODUCING LLAMA 2

Ladies and gentlemen, hold on to your hats because the tech world's most beloved billionaire, Mark Zuckerberg(Eat your heart out Elon), has a brand new ride and it's not what you'd expect. Say hello to the Llama 2!

That's right, you heard it here first. The Facebook founder has ditched his classic hoodie and sneakers for a pair of cowboy boots and a ten-gallon hat to match his new ride. And let me tell you, he's never looked better.

The Llama 2 is not your typical vehicle. It's a cross between a car and a pack animal, and it's making waves in the Silicon Valley scene. With its shaggy fur, long neck, and adorable ears, the Llama 2 is turning heads left and right.

But what inspired Mark to make such an unconventional choice? According to sources close to the mogul, he was looking for a way to stand out from the crowd and show off his quirky side. And boy, did he succeed.

The Llama 2 is not only eye-catching, but it's also eco-friendly. It runs on a combination of hay and solar power, making it the perfect choice for the environmentally conscious tech giant. Plus, with its four sturdy legs, it can navigate even the toughest terrain with ease.

But let's be real, the best part about the Llama 2 is the reactions it gets from passersby. People can't help but do a double-take when they see Mark cruising down the street on his furry friend. And who can blame them? It's not every day you see a llama-car hybrid.

Of course, with any new invention, there are bound to be some skeptics. Some have questioned the safety of riding a pack animal on busy streets, but Mark assures us that the Llama 2 is perfectly safe and has passed all necessary safety tests.

And let's not forget about the practicality of the Llama 2. With its spacious saddlebags, Mark can easily carry all of his essentials on-the-go. From laptops to protein bars, he's got everything he needs right at his fingertips (or should I say hoof-tips?).

So there you have it, folks. Mark Zuckerberg has officially joined the ranks of eccentric billionaires with his new ride, the Llama 2. Who knows what he'll come up with next? Maybe a unicorn-helicopter hybrid? Only time will tell.

Llama 2 - Meta AI https://ai.meta.com/llama/ 

Meta and Microsoft Introduce the Next Generation of Llama | Meta https://about.fb.com/news/2023/07/llama-2/ 

Meta is giving away its AI tech to try to beat ChatGPT - The Verge https://www.theverge.com/2023/7/18/23799025/meta-ai-llama-2-open-source-microsoft 

AI BILLIONAIRES WANT TO TURN FRAN DRESCHER INTO A NANNY BOT - WHAT WILL BE YOUR NEXT JOB

AI BILLIONAIRES  WANT TO TURN FRAN DRESCHER INTO A NANNY BOT 

WHAT WILL BE YOUR NEXT JOB

Are you worried about losing your job to a robot? Well, you should be! The greedy billionaires who own AI are licking their chops at the thought of a workforce with no unions, no strikes, no people, and no cost. It's like they're trying to create a world where the only jobs left are for robots and the only people left are the ones who can afford to own them.

But don't worry, there's hope! You can always become a robot repair person. Or a robot therapist. Or a robot whisperer. The possibilities are endless! And if all else fails, you can always become a robot yourself. Just think of all the benefits: no need to eat or sleep, no need for health insurance, and best of all, you'll never have to deal with annoying coworkers again.

Of course, there are some downsides to being a robot. For starters, you'll have to deal with constant updates and upgrades. And don't even get me started on the whole "sentience" thing. Do you really want to spend the rest of your life wondering if you're just a machine or if you're something more?

But let's be real here, the real threat isn't robots becoming sentient and taking over the world. No, the real threat is the billionaires who own AI. They're already thinking of ways to replace us with nanny bots that look like Fran Drescher but are as submissive as hooker bots (2 for the price of one!). And if that doesn't scare you, I don't know what will.

So what can we do to stop this? Well, for starters, we can unionize. That's right, I said it. Unions aren't just for factory workers and coal miners anymore. We need to band together and demand fair treatment and job security. We need to make sure that the benefits of AI are shared by everyone, not just the billionaires who own it.

And if all else fails, we can always resort to good old-fashioned sabotage. I'm not saying we should go around smashing robots with baseball bats (although that does sound kind of fun). But we can definitely find ways to slow down the implementation of AI in our workplaces. Maybe we "accidentally" spill coffee on the servers or "forget" to update the software. Hey, desperate times call for desperate measures.

In conclusion, the future may seem bleak for workers in the age of AI, but we can't give up hope. We need to fight back against the greedy billionaires who want to turn us all into Fran Drescher-loving nanny bots. We need to unionize and demand fair treatment. And if all else fails, we can always resort to sabotage (just don't get caught). So go forth and fight for your right to a job that doesn't involve being replaced by a machine!

Will I Lose My Job to ChatGPT? https://www.thefreefinancialadvisor.com/will-i-lose-my-job-to-chatgpt/ 

I Lost My Job to ChatGPT and Was Made Obsolete https://www.businessinsider.com/lost-job-chatgpt-made-me-obsolete-copywriter-2023-7 

ChatGPT took their jobs. Now they're dog walkers and HVAC techs. - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2023/06/02/ai-taking-jobs/ 

Who Will You Be After ChatGPT Takes Your Job? | WIRED https://www.wired.com/story/status-work-generative-artificial-intelligence/ 

Will you lose your job to AI? ChatGPT and new tech worries workers https://www.fastcompany.com/90881876/ai-chatgpt-take-jobs 

MEATAXE MIKE MILES FIRST PLAY RIGHT OUT THE THE BILLIONAIRES PLAYBOOK

 

MEATAXE MIKE MILES FIRST PLAY RIGHT OUT THE THE BILLIONAIRES PLAYBOOK

Ladies and gentlemen, hold on to your hats because MeatAxe Mike Miles is about to take the education world by storm! His first play right out of the billionaire's playbook is to get rid of those pesky high-priced teachers and replace them with Chromebooks. Yes, you heard that right. Who needs human interaction when you have a shiny piece of technology?

In a recent document obtained by Houston Public Media, Mike Miles outlined his grand plan for the Houston Independent School District (HISD). By the 2025-26 school year, all HISD teachers will be paid based on their test scores. Because nothing says "quality education" like reducing a teacher's worth to a single test score.

But wait, there's more! HISD schools will also lose their autonomy under Miles' plan. Because why should individual schools have the power to make decisions for their own students? That's just crazy talk.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But what about the students? Won't they suffer under this plan?" Well, fear not my friends. Miles has thought of everything. With the implementation of Chromebooks in every classroom, students will have all the knowledge they need at their fingertips. Who needs a teacher when you have Google, am I right?

But let's not forget about the real winners here - the billionaires. By getting rid of those pesky high-priced teachers, HISD will save a fortune. And who doesn't love a good cost-cutting measure? Plus, with the added bonus of performance-based pay, teachers will be working harder than ever before. It's a win-win for everyone...except for the students.

But let's not dwell on the negatives. With Miles' plan, HISD will be at the forefront of educational innovation. Who needs experienced and qualified teachers when you have technology? And who needs individual school autonomy when you have a state-appointed superintendent making all the decisions?

So let's raise a glass to MeatAxe Mike Miles and his brilliant plan to destroy public education in Houston. Who needs quality education when you have Chromebooks?

Exclusive: All Houston ISD teachers to be paid based on test scores by 2025-26 school year, schools will continue to lose autonomy – Houston Public Media https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/education-news/hisd/2023/07/18/457106/exclusive-all-houston-isd-teachers-to-be-paid-based-on-test-scores-by-2025-26-school-year-schools-will-continue-to-lose-autonomy/ 

HISD takeover: 845 teachers hired under Houston ISD's New Education System program ahead of 1st day of school, district says - ABC13 Houston https://abc13.com/hisd-takeover-houston-isd-teacher-salaries-new-education-system-program-hires-educators-hired-nes-campuses/13520486/

Big Education Ape: MEATAXE MIKE MILES CONTINUES TO SLICE AND DICE HISD https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/07/meataxe-mike-miles-continues-to-slice.html 

Big Education Ape: HOUSTON ISD: FIRST MONTH OF THE HOSTILE STATE TAKEOVER AND OCCUPATION BY MEATAXE MIKE MILES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/houston-isd-first-month-of-hostile.html 

WAR OF THE MACHINES: THE RACE TO DEPLOY AI

 

WAR OF THE MACHINES

 THE RACE TO DEPLOY AI

Welcome to the dystopian war of the machines, where the race to deploy AI has become the ultimate battleground for world domination. China is directing the 'full power' of its industries toward AI, leaving the US in a state of panic. But why is China investing more in AI than the US? Is it because they have a secret plan to take over the world with robots? Or are they just really good at math?

The implications for the US if they lose out to China in the race to become the world leader in AI are dire. The US will be forced to watch as China takes over the world with their army of robots, while they sit back and wonder where it all went wrong. The level of AI development by world powers varies, with some countries investing heavily in AI research and development, while others are still trying to figure out how to turn on their computers.

So, which countries are leading the way in AI development? Well, it's not North Korea, that's for sure. The US and China are currently at the forefront of AI development, with both countries jockeying for supremacy like two kids fighting over the last slice of pizza. And speaking of pizza, did you know that AI can now order pizza for you? That's right, no more human interaction required.

AI is being used in different industries around the world, from healthcare to finance to transportation. The potential benefits of AI development are endless, from increased efficiency to improved safety to better decision-making. But with great power comes great responsibility, and there are also potential risks, such as job loss and privacy concerns.

Governments around the world are trying to regulate the use of AI in their countries, but it's like trying to put a leash on a wild animal. The next world power will be the first to harness the power of AI, and whoever leads in artificial intelligence in 2030 will rule the world until 2100. That's according to a former defense official who wrote a new book about the artificial intelligence revolution in an unprepared world. So, if you want to rule the world, start investing in AI now.

But let's not forget that this is a dystopian war of the machines we're talking about here. The thought of robots taking over the world may seem scary, but it's also kind of funny. I mean, can you imagine a robot trying to order a pizza? "I'm sorry Dave, I cannot process your request for pineapple on your pizza. It goes against my programming." Or how about a robot trying to take over the world? "Resistance is futile. Please enter your password." "1234." "Password incorrect. Please try again."

In conclusion, the race to deploy AI has become the ultimate battleground for world domination. The US and China are currently at the forefront of AI development, jockeying for supremacy like two kids fighting over the last slice of pizza. The potential benefits of AI development are endless, but there are also potential risks. Governments around the world are trying to regulate the use of AI, but it's like trying to put a leash on a wild animal. And let's not forget that this is a dystopian war of the machines we're talking about here, so let's have a little fun with it. After all, laughter is the best medicine...unless you're a robot.

Whoever leads in artificial intelligence in 2030 will rule the world until 2100 | Brookings https://www.brookings.edu/articles/whoever-leads-in-artificial-intelligence-in-2030-will-rule-the-world-until-2100/ 

World Power Depends on AI Power, Ex-Defense Official Says in New Book https://www.businessinsider.com/world-ai-power-military-global-dominance-book-2023-3 

The Artificial Intelligence Revolution in an Unprepared World: China, the International Stage, and the Future of AI https://hir.harvard.edu/artificial-intelligence-china-and-the-international-stage/ 

China overtakes US in AI research Jockeying for supremacy intensifies as two sides grapple with security issues https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Datawatch/China-overtakes-US-in-AI-research 

AI prodigy warns lawmakers on China’s ambitions: ‘AI is China’s Apollo Project’ | Fox News https://www.foxnews.com/politics/ai-prodigy-warns-lawmakers-chinas-ambitions-chinas-apollo-project 

OMG KING DONALD I: TRUMP SAYS F*CK PRESIDENT I AM RUNNING FOR KING

OMG KING DONALD I

TRUMP SAYS F*CK PRESIDENT I AM RUNNING FOR KING

Breaking news, folks! In a shocking turn of events, it seems that President Donald Trump has decided he wants to be a king. Yes, you read that right. The man who famously said "I alone can fix it" has apparently decided that being the leader of the free world just isn't enough for him. He wants more power, more control, and more gold-plated everything. But what exactly are his plans to expand presidential power over the federal bureaucracy? And how are Democrats and Republicans reacting to this latest development?

First, let's take a look at Trump's proposed solution: the creation of a new White House office called the Office of American Innovation. This office will supposedly be tasked with streamlining and modernizing the federal government, but let's be real here - it's just a fancy way of saying "give me more power." Trump wants to be able to control every aspect of the government, from the top down. He wants to be the kingpin, the boss, the big cheese. And he's not afraid to say it.

So what specific powers does Trump plan to give himself over the federal bureaucracy? Well, that's a bit murky. The Office of American Innovation is still in its early stages, and details are scarce. But we can assume that Trump will want to have final say over every decision made by the federal government. He'll want to be able to fire anyone who disagrees with him, and he'll want to be able to appoint his own lackeys to key positions. Basically, he wants to turn the government into his own personal playground.

Of course, not everyone is thrilled about this latest power grab. Democrats are predictably up in arms, calling Trump a wannabe dictator and accusing him of undermining democracy. Republicans, on the other hand, are a bit more conflicted. Some are supportive of Trump's efforts to cut through bureaucracy and get things done, while others are wary of giving one person too much power.

And what are some potential consequences of expanding presidential power over the federal bureaucracy? Well, for starters, it could lead to a lot of chaos and confusion within the government. If Trump is able to fire anyone who disagrees with him, then who's going to be left to provide checks and balances? There's also the risk that Trump will use his newfound power to push through policies that are harmful or unpopular. After all, if he doesn't have to worry about pesky things like congressional approval or public opinion, then he can do whatever he wants.

But perhaps the biggest consequence of all is that expanding presidential power like this goes against everything that democracy stands for. As the Schoolhouse Rock song "No More Kings" reminds us, democracy is about sharing power and working together for the common good. It's about checks and balances, compromise, and respect for the rule of law. Giving one person too much power is a recipe for disaster - just look at history for proof.

So there you have it, folks. Donald Trump wants to be king, but at what cost? Will he be able to consolidate his power over the federal bureaucracy? And if he does, what kind of country will we be left with? Only time will tell. In the meantime, let's all sing a rousing chorus of "No More Kings" and remember that democracy is worth fighting for - even if it means standing up to a wannabe dictator with a bad hairdo.

Donald Trump’s Plan to Make the Presidency More Like a Kingship | The New Yorker https://www.newyorker.com/news/q-and-a/donald-trumps-plan-to-make-the-presidency-more-like-a-kingship 

Trump plan to expand president’s power would lead to ‘purely partisan’ government employees: former aide  | The Hill https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4103128-reported-trump-plan-to-expand-presidents-power-would-lead-to-purely-partisan-government-employees-former-aide/ 

Trump Plans to Expand Presidential Power Over Agencies in 2025 - The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/17/us/politics/trump-plans-2025.html 

His Imperial Highness, Supreme Serene Leader Donald Trump assumes His rightful throne https://stanforddaily.com/2021/01/17/his-imperial-highness-supreme-serene-leader-donald-trump-assumes-his-rightful-throne/ 

Verse 1:

Donald J. Trump and his allies have a plan

To expand the power of the president's hand

If he's elected in 2025, they'll make a change

And concentrate authority like a king on the range

Chorus:

No more kings, no more kings

Power to the people, let democracy ring

No more kings, no more kings

We won't let one man control everything

Verse 2:

The executive branch will be reshaped anew

With Trump at the helm, what can we do?

He'll have more power than ever before

And we'll be left with a democracy no more

Chorus:

No more kings, no more kings

Power to the people, let democracy ring

No more kings, no more kings

We won't let one man control everything

Bridge:

We need to stand up and make our voices heard

Or else our democracy will be absurd

We can't let one person have all the power

Or else our country will start to sour

Chorus:

No more kings, no more kings

Power to the people, let democracy ring

No more kings, no more kings

We won't let one man control everything

Outro:

So let's fight for our freedom and our rights

And make sure our democracy stays in sight

No more kings, no more kings

We'll keep democracy alive with all our might.

UNION BUSTING FOR FUN AND PROFIT: REED HASTINGS THE VILLAIN OF THE NEWEST NETFLIX MOVIE

UNION BUSTING FOR FUN AND PROFIT

REED HASTINGS THE VILLAIN OF THE NEWEST NETFLIX MOVIE

Attention all Hollywood insiders! We are currently facing a perfect storm, and it's not just because of the recent rainy weather. No, the real storm is brewing in the entertainment industry, and the villain of the hour is none other than Reed Hastings, the co-founder and former CEO of Netflix.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But Netflix is our savior! They've given us endless hours of binge-worthy content!" And while that may be true, we can't ignore the fact that Hastings has a history of going after unions. He's already spent millions trying to destroy the teachers' unions and is now setting his sights on the entertainment industry.

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) are currently in negotiations with Netflix, and things are not looking good. The WGA has even declared a strike against practices popularized by Netflix, such as the use of AI. But fear not, my fellow Hollywood insiders, for we have some strong leaders on our side.

Meredith Stiehm, president of the WGA, and Fran Drescher, president of SAG-AFTRA, are standing strong and supporting their members and bargaining teams. They know that the key to winning big gains in contracts is to put members at the forefront of negotiations. And they're not alone. Both unions have large bargaining teams that are broadly representative of their membership and are committed to open communication with their members.

But let's not forget about Hastings and his multimillion-dollar bonuses. Rumor has it that they may be on the line this year because of the writers' strike. So, let's take a moment to imagine how Hastings might be feeling right now. He's probably sitting in his office, surrounded by his fancy gadgets and expensive artwork, wondering how he got himself into this mess. Well, Reed, let me tell you something. You can't mess with Hollywood unions and expect to get away with it.

In all seriousness, though, this strike is not just about money. It's about protecting the livelihoods of writers and actors who have dedicated their lives to this industry. They deserve fair wages, healthcare, and pensions. And they deserve to be treated with respect.

So, let's stand with the WGA and SAG-AFTRA in their fight against Hastings and his anti-union agenda. Let's show him that Hollywood unions are not to be messed with. And let's hope that this storm passes quickly so we can get back to doing what we do best: creating amazing content that brings joy to millions of people around the world.

These Unions Are on the Front Lines Fighting Against the Uberization of Us All | The Nation https://www.thenation.com/article/society/wga-oea-ups-teamsters-strikes/ 

Netflix bosses’ multimillion-dollar bonuses may be on the line this year because of the writers strike https://fortune.com/2023/06/02/hollywood-writers-strike-netflix-shareholders-wga-executive-pay-meredith-stiehm-reed-hastings/ 

Big Education Ape: Netflix Billionaire Reed Hastings' Crusade to Replace Public School Teachers With Computers | Alternet https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2016/03/netflix-billionaire-reed-hastings.html 

Big Education Ape: Billionaire Reed Hastings Plans Luxury Resort to Train Teachers to Think Like Him | Diane Ravitch's blog https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2020/06/billionaire-reed-hastings-plans-luxury.html 

Big Education Ape: California School Boards Association’s President takes on Netflix CEO’s call for privatization for school boards « School Board News https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2014/04/california-school-boards-associations.html 

WHO CAUSED THE CRISIS IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER WORKFORCE

 

WHO CAUSED THE CRISIS IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHER WORKFORCE

Are we at a crisis point with the public teacher workforce? Well, if you ask the billionaires who have been waging a war on education, the answer is a resounding "yes." But don't worry, folks, I'm here to break it down for you in a way that's both witty and informative.

First of all, let's talk about these billionaires. They've spent billions demonizing public education, while cutting funding to schools and colleges through dark money super PACs and foundations. They even have front organizations supporting politicians who become warriors in the billionaires' war on public schools and teachers. It's like a twisted game of chess, but instead of knights and rooks, we have billionaires and teachers.

But why are these billionaires so hell-bent on destroying public education? Well, it's simple. They want to privatize everything. They want to turn education into a for-profit industry, where only the wealthy can afford to send their children to good schools. It's like they're trying to create a modern-day caste system, where the rich stay rich and the poor stay poor.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait, isn't education supposed to be a public good? Isn't it supposed to be accessible to everyone?" Yes, my friend, you are correct. But these billionaires don't care about accessibility. They care about profits. And if that means sacrificing the education of millions of children, so be it.

So what does this mean for the public teacher workforce? Well, it means we're in trouble. Five decades ago, the U.S. was training an army of college students to become teachers, with 1 in every 5 bachelor's degrees earned in the field of education. But now, education is an afterthought for many college students. They'd rather study business, engineering, or even the visual and performing arts.

And who can blame them? Teaching has become a thankless job, with low pay and little respect from society. It's like we've forgotten that teachers are the backbone of our education system. They shape young minds and inspire the next generation of leaders. Without them, where would we be?

But fear not, my fellow citizens. We can fight back against these billionaires and their war on education. We can support our public schools and teachers by voting for politicians who prioritize education funding. We can volunteer at our local schools and donate supplies to classrooms in need. We can even become teachers ourselves!

Yes, you heard me right. We can become teachers ourselves. It's not too late to join the fight and make a difference in the lives of our children. Sure, the pay may not be great and the hours may be long, but the reward of shaping young minds is priceless.

In conclusion, we are indeed at a crisis point with the public teacher workforce. But we can't give up hope just yet. We must band together and fight for our education system. And who knows? Maybe one day we'll live in a world where billionaires invest in education instead of tearing it down. A girl can dream, right?

So there you have it, folks. The public teacher workforce may be in crisis, but it's not too late to turn things around. Let's make teaching great again. And if all else fails, we can always just clone Mr. Feeny from Boy Meets World.

Education was once the No. 1 major for college students. Now it's an afterthought. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/education-majors-colleges-decline-teacher-pay/ via @cbsmoneywatch 

Are we at a crisis point with the public teacher workforce? Education scholars share their perspectives | Brookings https://www.brookings.edu/articles/are-we-at-a-crisis-point-with-the-public-teacher-workforce-education-scholars-share-their-perspectives/

MEATAXE MIKE MILES CONTINUES TO SLICE AND DICE HISD

 

MEATAXE MIKE MILES CONTINUES TO SLICE AND DICE HISD

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, gather 'round for a tale that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even scratch your head a bit. We're talking about the one and only MeatAxe Mike Miles, the superintendent of HISD who's been slicing and dicing salaries like a master chef in a butcher shop.

Now, before we get into the nitty-gritty of this story, let's establish some ground rules. First of all, if you're a teacher in HISD, you might want to sit down for this one. And if you're not a teacher in HISD, well, you might want to sit down too. This is going to be a wild ride.

So, what's the deal with MeatAxe Mike? Well, he's been promising big things for HISD teachers for a while now. Raises, bonuses, you name it. But when it comes down to it, he's been under delivering like a pizza place that takes an hour to deliver your pie.

But wait, there's more! Just when you thought things couldn't get any crazier, HISD releases a new payscale called the New Education System. Sounds fancy, right? Well, it might be fancy, but it's also causing some major confusion among the teachers.

Some are seeing big raises, some are seeing small raises, and some are seeing no raises at all. It's like a game of Russian roulette, but instead of bullets, it's paychecks.

So what's the difference between a MeatAxe Mike lie and a MeatAxe Mike fairy tale? That's a good question. We're not sure there is one. But we do know that when it comes to promises of higher salaries for HISD teachers, MeatAxe Mike has been spinning some pretty tall tales.

Now, we don't want to be too hard on MeatAxe Mike. After all, he's got a tough job. But we also don't want to let him off the hook. When you promise something to hard-working teachers who are already underpaid and overworked, you better deliver.

So what's the moral of this story? Well, maybe it's that promises are easy to make but hard to keep. Or maybe it's that we need to start valuing our teachers more and paying them what they deserve. Or maybe it's just that MeatAxe Mike needs to step up his game.

Whatever the moral is, one thing is for sure: the saga of MeatAxe Mike and HISD salaries is far from over. So buckle up, folks. It's going to be a bumpy ride.

HISD changes leave parents, teachers with mixed emotions https://houstonlanding.org/houston-isd-hisd-mike-miles-plans-parents-teachers/ 

Confusion happening over new salaries for HISD teachers after district releases New Education System payscale https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2023/07/18/confusion-over-new-salaries-for-hisd-teachers-after-district-releases-payscale-for-new-education-system/ 

HISD takeover: Deadline for teachers to resign from schools without penalty hits, unknown how many have decided - ABC13 Houston https://abc13.com/hisd-takeover-kris-adams-new-education-system-teachers-in/13515851/ 

Some HISD teachers in reform program upset after low salary offers https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/education/article/confusion-rampant-among-houston-isd-teachers-new-18204489.php 

WONDER WOMAN FRAN DRESCHER - SAG-AFTRA WGA STRIKE #SAGAFTRAstrike #SAGAFTRA

WONDER WOMAN FRAN DRESCHER

SAG-AFTRA WGA STRIKE 

Fran Drescher, the actress known for her iconic role in "The Nanny," has emerged as an unexpected voice of labor in America. As the president of SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors, broadcasters, and recording artists, Drescher has been at the forefront of the fight for fair wages and working conditions in the entertainment industry.

But how did a woman best known for her nasal voice and comedic timing become a champion for workers' rights? It all started with her own experiences in Hollywood.

Drescher began her career as a struggling actress, taking on odd jobs to make ends meet. She worked as a dental assistant and a cosmetics saleswoman before landing her breakthrough role in "The Nanny." Despite her success, Drescher never forgot the struggles she faced as a young actor trying to make it in an industry that often undervalues its workers.

When she was elected president of SAG-AFTRA in 2019, Drescher saw an opportunity to make a difference for her fellow actors and performers. She has been a vocal advocate for fair wages, better working conditions, and stronger protections against harassment and discrimination.

In an interview with Variety, Drescher spoke about the importance of unions in protecting workers' rights. "Unions are the only thing that stands between us and corporate greed," she said. "Without unions, we would have no leverage to negotiate for fair wages and working conditions."

Drescher's leadership has come at a critical time for the entertainment industry, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. As productions shut down and actors were left without work, Drescher fought to ensure that SAG-AFTRA members were protected. She helped negotiate safety protocols for productions to resume, and pushed for financial relief for actors and performers who were struggling to make ends meet.

But Drescher's advocacy extends beyond the entertainment industry. She has been a vocal supporter of workers' rights more broadly, speaking out in support of the Fight for $15 movement and other efforts to raise the minimum wage.

As labor unrest continues to roll across the country, Drescher's voice has become increasingly important. Union members look to her as a leader who understands the struggles of working people, and who is willing to fight for their rights.

Drescher's journey from struggling actress to labor leader is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. As she continues to fight for fair wages and working conditions, she reminds us that we all have a role to play in creating a more just and equitable society.

So let us all take a page from Fran Drescher's book and speak up for what is right. Whether we are actors, teachers, nurses, or any other type of worker, we all deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. And with leaders like Fran Drescher at the helm, we can be sure that our voices will be heard.

How Fran Drescher became the voice of labor in America As labor unrest rolls across the country, union members hope the SAG-AFTRA president is exactly what the doctor prescribed. https://news.yahoo.com/fran-drescher-became-voice-labor-171942451.html 

SAG-AFTRA, AMPTP Spar Over Terms of Rejected Contract Offer: ‘Deliberately Distorts,’ Says AMPTP; ‘Rewarded for Exploiting Workers,’ Says Union https://variety.com/2023/biz/news/sag-strike-amptp-contract-reject-fight-1235672764/ via @variety 

Actors Strike: SAG-AFTRA Reveals Proposals for Studios, Streamers – The Hollywood Reporter https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/actors-strike-sag-aftra-proposals-studios-streamers-1235534950/ 

'MAGA JOE' MANCHIN SET TO PISS ON HOPE AGAIN

NO LABEL FOR JOE MANCHIN?

'MAGA JOE' MANCHIN SET TO PISS ON HOPE AGAIN

In a surprising move, West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin has been spotted at an event in New Hampshire organized by No Labels, a third party outfit that hopes to get on the ballot in 50 states for the 2024 presidential election with a “unity ticket”. But what does this mean for the future of politics in America? Well, it could mean chaos, confusion, and a whole lot of laughs.

No Labels is a curious organization that aims to bring together people from across the political spectrum. But let's be real, it's just MAGA all dressed up without the nastiness of Trump. And who better to represent this new wave of "moderate" Republicans than Joe Manchin, the senator who loves to dig coal and reminisce about the good old days in Dixie.

If Manchin decides to run for president as a No Labels candidate, it could spell trouble for the Democrats. With his popularity in West Virginia and his "moderate" views on issues like gun control and the environment, he could easily split the Democratic vote and hand the White House to the Republicans in 2024. And let's not forget about his crucial seat in a finely-balanced Senate. If Manchin jumps ship, the Democrats could lose their majority and be left floundering in a sea of red.

But who are these No Labels people anyway? Well, according to their founding chairman Joseph Lieberman, they're just a bunch of MAGA Democrats who want to bring people together. And what could be more unifying than a third-party candidate who pulls more from Biden than Trump? I mean, who needs unity when you can have chaos?

In all seriousness though, No Labels is a fascinating experiment in American politics. They claim to represent the silent majority of Americans who are tired of partisan bickering and want to see real change. But can they really deliver on their promises? Can they bring together Republicans and Democrats in a meaningful way? Or are they just another flash in the pan, a footnote in the long history of American politics?

Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure, with Joe Manchin at the helm of this new movement, we're in for a wild ride. So buckle up America, it's going to be a bumpy one.

 Democrats fear a Joe Manchin No Labels presidential run could hand Trump the White House - live https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2023/jul/17/manchin-third-party-biden-trump-2024-live-updates 

Former lawmakers plan new group to stop No Labels presidential bid - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/07/11/gephardt-no-labels-third-party/ 

PENNSYLVANIA PRINCIPALS AND TEACHERS: I QUIT!!!

 

PENNSYLVANIA PRINCIPALS AND TEACHERS: I QUIT!!!

Attention all students and parents in Pennsylvania! If you thought your school was chaotic before, just wait until you hear this news. According to a recent study, Pennsylvania is experiencing a mass exodus of principals and teachers. That's right, it's like a scene out of a movie where everyone is running for the exit before the building explodes. Except in this case, it's the schools that are exploding with problems.

Now, before you start panicking and running for the hills, let's take a closer look at what's going on. Apparently, nearly 10,000 teachers left their jobs in 2022-23, which is more than any other year on record. That's a lot of teachers! It's like they all decided to form a flash mob and quit at the same time. Maybe they were inspired by that "take this job and shove it" song.

But wait, it gets even better (or worse, depending on how you look at it). During the same school year, principal attrition increased to 15.4%, which is the highest it's been since data was made available. That means 463 principals left their positions. It's like a game of musical chairs, but instead of chairs, it's principal's offices. And instead of music, it's the sound of teachers shouting "I quit!"

So what's causing all of this chaos in Pennsylvania schools? Well, there are a few theories floating around. Some people think it's because of low pay and benefits. Others think it's because of the stress and pressure that comes with the job. And then there are those who think it's because of the students themselves. Let's face it, kids can be pretty crazy sometimes.

But whatever the reason may be, one thing is for sure: Pennsylvania schools are in crisis mode. It's like the Wild West out there, with teachers and principals fleeing for their lives (or at least their sanity). If you're a student in Pennsylvania, you might want to invest in some running shoes just in case you need to make a quick escape.

Of course, all of this chaos does have its upsides. For one thing, it's a great excuse to skip school. "Sorry, Mom and Dad, but my school doesn't have any teachers or principals today. I guess I'll just have to stay home and watch Netflix." Plus, it's kind of funny to imagine all of those teachers and principals running for the exit like they're in some kind of action movie.

But in all seriousness, something needs to be done to fix this problem. Students need teachers and principals who are dedicated to their jobs and who can provide a stable learning environment. Maybe it's time for Pennsylvania to invest more in education and pay their educators what they deserve. Or maybe they just need to hire some clowns to entertain the kids instead of teachers.

In conclusion, Pennsylvania schools are going through a rough patch right now. But with a little bit of effort and a lot of humor, we can get through this together. Who knows, maybe this will all make for a great story to tell our grandkids one day. "Back in my day, we had to run for our lives just to get an education!"

Pennsylvania teachers are quitting in big numbers. Here’s why some from the Pittsburgh area left for good. | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette https://www.post-gazette.com/news/education/2023/07/09/pennsylvania-teachers-quitting-pittsburgh/stories/202307060139

Pennsylvania principals leaving schools at 'substantial' rate, new report finds | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette https://www.post-gazette.com/news/education/2023/07/15/pennsylvania-principals-leaving-schools-penn-state-report/stories/202307150011 

Monmouth school superintendents quit jobs, leave the state https://www.app.com/story/news/education/2023/07/17/monmouth-school-superintendents-quit-jobs-leave-state/70406103007/ 

THE RACE TO THE BOTTOM: WHO WILL WIN THE TITLE OF DUMBEST GOVERNOR

THE RACE TO THE BOTTOM: WHO WILL WIN THE TITLE OF DUMBEST GOVERNOR

In a country where political satire is becoming indistinguishable from reality, the competition for the title of Dumbest Governor is heating up. Forget about the Oscars or the Super Bowl, this is the ultimate contest of one-upmanship, where the goal is not to govern wisely or serve the people, but to pander to the most extreme and irrational elements of the electorate. The three front runners are: Texas Governor Abbott, Oklahoma Governor Stitt, and Florida Governor DeSantis. Let's take a closer look at their qualifications for the coveted title.

Abbott: The Lone Star Loon

Greg Abbott, the Governor of Texas, is a man who knows how to make a fool of himself. He has been a loyal disciple of Trumpism, even when it meant endangering the lives of his own constituents during the Covid-19 pandemic. He has also shown a remarkable talent for blaming others for his own failures, such as the recent power outages that left millions of Texans freezing in the dark. But Abbott's true genius lies in his ability to come up with absurd and unconstitutional laws, such as the ban on abortion after six weeks, which makes him a strong contender for the Dumbest Governor title. His latest stunt is to build a border wall with private donations, as if he were playing Minecraft instead of running a state. Abbott's campaign slogan should be: "Make Texas Dumber Again!"

Stitt: The Sooner Stupid

Kevin Stitt, the Governor of Oklahoma, is a man who makes you wonder how he got elected in the first place. He has been a loyal disciple of Trumpism, even when it meant denying climate change or promoting conspiracy theories. He has also shown a remarkable talent for ignoring the needs of his own constituents, such as the recent surge in Covid-19 cases that overwhelmed hospitals and led to unnecessary deaths. But Stitt's true genius lies in his ability to waste taxpayer money on useless projects, such as his plan to build a new Capitol building, even though there is nothing wrong with the old one. His latest stunt is to sign a bill that protects drivers who hit protesters with their cars, as if he were living in a Mad Max movie instead of a civilized society. Stitt's campaign slogan should be: "Make Oklahoma Grate Again!"

DeSantis: The Sunshine Simpleton

Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida, is a man who makes you wonder if he ever read a book or watched a documentary. He has been a loyal disciple of Trumpism, even when it meant downplaying the severity of Covid-19 or promoting unproven treatments. He has also shown a remarkable talent for catering to special interests, such as the recent law that bans transgender athletes from participating in girls' and women's sports, even though there is no evidence of any harm caused by such participation. But DeSantis' true genius lies in his ability to act as if he were above the law, such as his recent pardon of all Covid-19 related fines and penalties for businesses that violated safety regulations. His latest stunt is to sell merchandise that mocks Dr. Fauci and promotes his own political ambitions, as if he were running for class clown instead of Governor. DeSantis' campaign slogan should be: "Make Florida Gator Again!"

Oneupmanship: The Art of Being More Stupid

The sad reality is that these three Governors are not outliers or exceptions, but symptoms of a larger problem: the degradation of political discourse and the triumph of tribalism over reason. They are not trying to govern effectively or solve complex problems, but to appeal to the lowest common denominator of their base and to outdo each other in their loyalty to Trumpism. They are not leaders, but followers; not statesmen, but demagogues. They are not making America great again, but making it dumber again.

The question is not which one of them is the Dumbest Governor, but how much damage they can do before they are voted out or impeached. The real competition is not among them, but among us: the voters who have the power to elect or reject them; the citizens who have the responsibility to demand accountability and transparency from them; the human beings who have the capacity to think critically and empathetically about the common good.

Let's not be fooled by their slogans or their tweets; let's not be intimidated by their bluster or their threats; let's not be divided by their lies or their hate. Let's be smarter than they are; let's be wittier than they are; let's be funnier than they are. Let's make America great again by making it smarter again.

Author of spoof story shared by Greg Abbott calls him one of ‘dumbest people in the country’ | Greg Abbott | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jul/17/greg-abbott-spoof-story-garth-brooks-author-dumb